The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Beijing’s magnificent Forbidden City is greater than a mere murals. Within its citadel partitions, evidence of two former dynasties is on display.

Construction

Constructed between 1406 and 1420 under the watchful eyes of Emperor Yongle of the Ming Dynasty, the Forbidden City employed the services of many a laborer. Blocks of quarried stone were hauled across ice roads while colossal pillars of nanmu wood were transported from the forests of southwest China as a part of a project that might soon grow to be the middle of governance for rulers of the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

Entering the Forbidden City

In the event you arrive here from Ascott Central Wuxi which is a superb example of Wuxi accommodation, you will probably be required to enter through the Meridian Gate. Upon passing the Gate, your journeys will take you into a gorgeous courtyard where you’ll then should navigate the Golden Stream. En path to the Gate of Supreme Harmony, you’ll bump into a courtyard that after catered to audiences of yesteryear.

Three Great Halls

Undoubtedly, the heart beat of the Forbidden City is the Hall of Supreme Harmony which witnessed the coronations and birthday celebrations of the emperors. Inside is the frilly Dragon Throne from where the emperor would preside over matters of state. Next up is the Hall of Central Harmony which functioned because the emperor’s transit lounge while the Hall of Preserving Harmony which was devoid of support pillars was at all times used for banquets and imperial examinations.

Imperial Garden

Themed as a classical Chinese garden, the splendidly appointed Imperial Garden showcases some 7,000 sqm of expert landscaping, pavilions, walkways, rockeries and carbuncular cypresses that are a sight for sore eyes.